FAQ
What is a stone fabricator?
Natural stone fabricators purchase and install the material selected for your project. Their experience and equipment is unique with
the ability to work with such durable materials. A fabricator will work with you in the design of your layout and how to effectively
use the slab material. We request all fabricators who purchase from us go through a validating registration process to ensure they
have the qualifications to properly and safely complete an installation.
How do I choose a fabricator if I am not currently working with one?
Montana Stone Gallery provides a registered fabricator list if you are not currently working with one. If you have your plans available
and a few stone colors selected, we can assist by sending out your information to all regional fabricators. Past client referrals from
a fabricator are suggested. Registered Fabricators
Does Granite and Marble need to be
sealed? (most frequent question)
There have been many advancements in the production of
natural stone slabs including a process called Resin
Sealing. Even though most slabs are now resin sealed in
the factory (prior to polishing), the process of grinding and
polishing slabs removes much of the imbedded resin. Therefore
it is important to seal and maintain your natural stone with
quality products. We highly recommend HMK-StoneCare. How do I make a natural stone selection?
There is an extensive variety of stone to choose from at any of our galleries, though narrowing it down can be quite easy. A few key
factors of preference are color, motion, and cost. Deciding what kind of look you want can help determine the first. We recommend if
you visit a gallery to bring other items related to your design so you can see how they pair with the stone. If you’re maintaining
a budget, check with your fabricator to see what your range is. There’s a stone for every application!
Can I see the slabs before my fabricator purchases them?
Yes, we can schedule an appointment with you to have individual slabs set up for your viewing before or after the fabricator has purchased
them. Please contact your fabricator or local gallery to coordinate in advance.
How much does installed natural stone cost?
Over all, natural stone costs are going to vary based on the material and application. In general, most basic projects start around
$60.00 - $70.00 per square foot which includes installation of a lower priced material. Specific price information is available through
a registered fabricator. Because we are not finishing the product, we cannot estimate what the final costs will be.
Should I be concerned about Radon?
Simply put No, the MIA has contributed to funding for research analysis about Radon levels in granite. The following article provides additional information. Peer reviewed Radon research published.
Where does it all come from?
Natural stone comes from all over the world. It is literally the Earth’s crust. Most of our imported stone comes from Brazil, Italy,
India, Africa, Norway, Australia, though there are many more export locations. Our supply of “green” granite is quarried in Northern
Idaho and is the only domestic material we carry.
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